3 minute read
One of Australia’s best and most-respected form analysts, David Gately, is joining Sky Racing.
The Melbourne-based Gately, who is known for his encyclopaedic knowledge of form, strong analysis and affable style, will start the new role from the first of next month.
Gately’s appointment further bolsters Sky Racing’s national presence with him joining Deane Lester to give Sky the two most-respected form analysts in Victoria.
“I am extremely excited to be joining the Sky/TAB team,” Gately said. “I have been a fan of Sky Racing since its inception way back in 1985 and dreamt of working with the organisation, pretty much, from those very early days.
“Horse racing is sport, it is entertainment, and as such, I feel, should be fun. It is my strong desire to ensure those who consume racing at any age, enjoy the experience of this wonderful sport.
“I am passionate about the educational aspect of horse racing, I am keen to pass on whatever knowledge I have, in the hope that both this, and the next generation of punters are highly ‘armed' as I believe it greatly enriches the enjoyment levels of the punter and the viewer.”
Lester described Gately a revolutionary in his space.
“He’s brought form analysis into the 21st century with a natural blend of form study, video review and sectional time assessment that will prove a winner for Sky Racing,” he said.
“I’m just so genuinely excited about getting the opportunity to work with David, especially doing the exciting stuff through Sky Racing and TAB.”
Just as thrilled about Gately’s appointment were his soon to be colleagues at Sky Racing, including: Greg Radley, Ron Dufficy and Lizzie Jelfs, who all welcomed his appointment.
Sky Racing’s Tony Brassel, who Gately revealed had been a strong mentor, was also delighted.
“This is a Group 1 result and he’s a Group 1 bloke,” he said. “For the past 25 years I’ve known David Gately and witnessed his impressive transition to 'The Gator’. First and foremost he’s a weight-for-age human being.
“Additionally, he understands the mechanics and intricacies of horse racing and betting. To the nth degree!"
